NCJ Number
85547
Journal
Urban League Review Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Dated: (Fall 1981) Pages: 62-70
Date Published
1981
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This study examines differences in experiences and perceptions of black and white officers in their work and whether these experiences and perceptions have differing influences on black and white officers' likelihood of retention.
Abstract
A total of 303 black and white police officers (55 percent black and 45 percent white) from seven agencies were surveyed to determine aspects of their experiences that might influence the likelihood of job retention, notably job assignments, reactions to departmental preappointment selection procedures, feelings about the way in which they are treated, and some individual characteristics of the officers. Black officers reported receiving higher levels of feedback on both the oral interview and background investigation than white officers. Black officers also reported receiving less supervisory support during their probation period. Black officers were less likely to report that they received fair treatment, and they were more likely to select community-based reasons for remaining a police officer; white officers were more likely to select aspects of the job itself. Factors predictive for black officers' retention but not for white officers were (1) feedback on oral interview, (2) feedback on background investigation, (3) receiving fair treatment, and (4) reasons why the officers might leave the department. Factors more predictive for white officers' retention were (1) understanding department goals, (2) self-perceived social class, and (3) reason for remaining a police officer. Recommendations for recruiting and retaining minority and female police officers are presented. Fourteen references are listed.